Anyone who has ever suffered from a nail fungus knows how nasty and irritating the condition can be. Doctors have a new weapon to fit this stubborn health problem: a laser.
Unsightly toenail fungus is a condition millions of American cope with every day. James Allison, 68, of San Antonio says the yellow, cracked nails make him self-conscious about his feet. “It can be painful,” Allison said. “It’s hard to cut your nails. People don’t want to use your shower. My wife doesn’t.”
Now, the Innovative Foot Care and Laser Center is using a new tool to fight fungus. It’s called the Pinpointe Laser. And here’s how it works. A technician shines the light through the toenail. The energy kills the fungus living underneath.
“So we’re able to eradicate everything that’s there without harming the normal tissues,” explained podiatrist Dr. Larry Cohen.
The laser treatment takes about 45 minutes. And here’s the best part. It only takes one treatment. The patient then waits 6 months to a year for the nails to grow out, and the problem is gone.
Allison says he doesn’t mind the wait. “I don’t mind that. I’d like to be able to wear sandals like some of these other people, you know?” he said.
Topical treatments and pills to treat nail fungus aren’t always effective and carry a risk of side effects. Cohen says the laser approach is more than 85% effective with no side effects and virtually no pain.
“There are not many treatments for any condition in medicine that have that good of results,” Cohen stressed.
His office has used the laser on about 25 patients in San Antonio over the past two months.
The office charges $950 for the laser treatment and follow-up. Right now, it’s not covered by insurance, but that may change as more patients learn about the therapy and request it.
